In our busy worlds, it’s common to find ourselves navigating through stress, anxiety, or even the heavy fog of depression. However, amidst the challenges, there’s an ancient wisdom that offers solace – Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture. Beyond its reputation as a mere physical remedy, acupuncture gently orchestrates harmony within the body, fostering a profound sense of emotional well-being. At the heart of TCM lies the intricate dance between mind, body, and spirit. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of this holistic system, delicately balances the flow of Qi – the vital life force cours ..read more

“Traumatic brain injury (TBI) increases Ca2+ [calcium] influx into neurons and desynchronizes mitochondrial function leading to energy depletion and apoptosis. This process may be influenced by brain testosterone (TS) levels, which are known to decrease after TBI.” Study: Carteri, Randhall B., et al. “Testosterone Administration after Traumatic Brain Injury Reduces Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neurodegeneration.” Journal of Neurotrauma, vol. 36, no. 14, 2019, pp. 2246–2259, doi:10.1089/neu.2018.6266. Here’s a breakdown of the above (1st 2 sentences from a research article on concussions ..read more

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait (Approx. 20-25 grams of protein per serving): Layer Greek yogurt with nuts, seeds, and berries for a protein-packed breakfast. 2. Egg Muffins (Approx. 7-10 grams of protein per serving): Make mini omelettes in a muffin tin with eggs, vegetables, and cheese. 3. Quinoa Breakfast Bowl (Approx. 15-20 grams of protein per serving): Cook quinoa and top it with cooked spinach, avocado, and a fried egg. 4. Chia Seed Pudding (Approx. 10-15 grams of protein per serving): Mix chia seeds with your choice of milk (almond, coconut, etc.) and let it sit overnight. Top with nuts and fr ..read more

In our stress-filled lives, the impact on our physical health, particularly digestion, often goes unnoticed. One significant consequence is hypochlorhydria, characterized by low stomach acid levels. Here’s the essence of this issue summarized:   The stomach is SUPPOSED to be acidic! We think neutralizing it with antacids is a good thing. It’s not. It creates more problems though it feels like a nice temporary band-aide. However, it’s not only NOT a solution, it’s the start of a vicious cycle with serious consequences. Understanding Hypochlorhydria: Hypochlorhydria, or low stomach acid ..read more

In the fast-paced world we live in, maintaining a healthy lifestyle has become more challenging than ever. One of the lesser-known health concerns that have gained prominence in recent years is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Emerging research now suggests a potential connection between NAFLD and another prevalent issue in our society – poor sleep or insomnia. The Rising Tide of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: NAFLD is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, unrelated to alcohol consumption. According to recent studies (Smith et al., 2020), NAFLD ..read more

Sleep sets your internal clock, regulates your appetite, consolidates and heals your memories, and refreshes your mood. Biological clock: if you struggle to wake up & feel alert in the morning, or are wide awake at bedtime, feel hungry at strange hours, then your internal clock is off. This internal clock tells you when to feel tired, when to feel alert, and when to get hungry. It drives the task of cellular housekeeping (damaged parts are cleared and DNA is repaired) at night. Fix: Light exposure during the day (natural – even on a cloudy day is better than indoor light), and dim lights ..read more

How Insomnia and Irregular Sleep Impact Telomere Length and Ageing As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the importance of a good night’s sleep cannot be overstated. Beyond the immediate effects on mood and cognition, emerging research suggests that the quality and duration of our sleep may have profound implications for the aging process and overall healthspan (how long your live healthily)! In this blog post, we we’ll explore the relationship between insomnia, irregular sleep, and telomere length—a crucial aspect of cellular aging. Keep in mind: shortening of telomeres happens as a ..read more

In our fast-paced, modern world, sleep often takes a back seat to our daily responsibilities. While the importance of a good night’s sleep is widely recognized, the consequences of insufficient rest go beyond mere fatigue. Research sheds light on a compelling connection between insomnia and the risk and progression of Type 2 diabetes. Here are the findings of three notable studies that explore how the lack of sleep may contribute to the development and exacerbation of diabetes. Linking Insomnia to Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: The study (PubMed 36740966) findings highlighted a significan ..read more

Learnt something new (that’s apparently not very new) this week -Dec/23! Hormonal Contraceptives (HC’s)dampen the stress response. Meaning, your body is less capable of (or just doesn’t) release the amount of Cortisol needed to help you cope with stress. More on Cortisol and your stress response here and here. Also cortisol isn’t a bad thing. It’s only bad when it’s too high or too low relative to your needs! Plus, it’s a major contributor to major depressive disorder -an effect that tends to linger long after the HC has been discontinued (especially if it was started before 19yoa). To learn m ..read more

What is facial rejuvenation acupuncture? Facial rejuvenation acupuncture, also known as cosmetic acupuncture or facial acupuncture, is a natural and non-invasive approach to improving skin health and reducing signs of aging. It’s an extension of traditional acupuncture, based on many of the same principles and uses similar whole-body approach. How does facial acupuncture work? Facial acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the face and body to stimulate circulation, promote collagen production, and balance energy flow. Is facial acupuncture painful? Mos ..read more